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Reviewed: 03 February 2012, 12:15 NZDT
Still current at:
17 May 2012
There is extreme risk to your security in the border region with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and we advise against all travel due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation and cross-border incursions by armed guerrilla groups.
There is high risk to your security in the border region with Burundi and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel due to the unsettled security situation, clashes between rebel and government forces and the risk of cross-border incursions by rebel groups.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Rwanda due to rebel and criminal activity and we advise caution.
Security incidents
Grenade attacks and other incidents of violence occur from time to time in Rwanda. On 28 January, 1 March and 12 July 2011, Rwanda police reported fatal grenade attacks had occurred in Kigali. Genocide memorial sites, markets and taxis have previously been targeted in attacks.
New Zealanders in Rwanda are advised to be security conscious in public places and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
Crime
Although crime levels in Rwanda remain relatively low, there has been a recent increase in petty crime like bag snatching and pickpocketing. Incidents of armed robbery have been reported in Kigali at night. New Zealanders in Rwanda are advised to avoid walking or travelling at night and guard personal belongings carefully.
Underlying ethnic tensions continue to influence the security environment with occasional ethnically motivated crime taking place. New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious throughout Rwanda.
General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Rwanda should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Rwanda are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Africa
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Page last updated: Friday, 03 February 2012, 12:30 NZDT
